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Safety

In urban areas pickpockets are commonplace, and venues of entertainment, such as karaoke bar and discotheques, can sometimes erupt into flashpoints of violence, reminiscent of the Wild West. Foreign visitors should be aware of the risks facing the indigenous population who engage in acts of political dissent; and seek not to leave friends or acquaintances in a compromised position. Do not distribute photographs of the Dalai Lama in public places or even upon random request! In general it is best if unwitting visitors make little contact with Tibetans in urban areas, but, as always, what one can or cannot do will depend upon who one knows. Some secret policemen re themselves among the most affable and gracious hosts when introduced socially by those with the right connections! In general the crime rate in Tibet is low, and you will be received courteously throughout the length and breadth of the country. Some remote village communities may be suspicious of passing strangers, but you are more at risk from the dangerous road conditions than from the country’s inhabitants. Overland travel in Tibet remains a pastime for the adventurous!